Empires of Light by Jill Jonnes

Empires of Light transports readers to the dawn of the 20th century, where the competition to electrify America was underway. In this captivating historical account, Jonnes explores the lives of three iconic figures – Thomas Edison, George Westinghouse, and Nikola Tesla – and illuminates the race to power cities with light.

Enveloped in a world driven by scientific creativity and ambition, Edison, the inventor of the practical light bulb, seeks to establish his electrical empire. Meanwhile, Westinghouse, a daring entrepreneur, aims to challenge Edison's direct current system by championing alternating current, backed by the genius of Tesla, a brilliant and enigmatic inventor.

Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Jonnes unravels the incendiary clashes between these visionary luminaries. Their fierce rivalry, involving legal battles, public demonstrations, and cutthroat business tactics, shapes the foundation of our modern electric system.

This mesmerizing narrative takes readers on a journey through the transformative triumphs and staggering setbacks faced by Edison, Westinghouse, and Tesla. Packed with electrifying discoveries and high-stakes scenarios, Empires of Light stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of innovation that forever altered the course of technology and society.